Red Arrows to appear at America's Cup event in Portsmouth

Organisers confirmed today that the opening day of the Louis Vuitton America’s Cup World Series Portsmouth on Friday July 22 is to be known as ‘Flying Friday’.

The highlight will be an appearance by the Red Arrows. Britain’s favourite aerobatic team has confirmed they will bring their distinctive nine Red Hawk jets and fly in tight formation, filling the sky with plumes of coloured smoke and synchronised manoeuvres.

A spokesman for organisers Team Origin said: ‘Alongside this adrenaline filled action in the air, ‘Flying Friday’ will also offer a first chance to watch the America’s Cup teams flying across the water on their foiling catamarans as the fast paced action reaches break neck speeds during preview racing. Preview racing will differ from weekend race days as the America’s Cup teams will be match racing in two boat duals as opposed to fleet racing on Saturday and Sunday - an exciting opportunity for both sailing enthusiast and newbie alike.

‘Spectators can watch the racing and aerial displays from a ticketed family friendly Race Village, which features big screens showcasing the event. Other interactive content includes a Kids Zone, Tech Zone and Team Zone where there is the chance to meet the teams and learn all about the America’s Cup. After racing on the Friday there is also the opportunity to watch the sailors and dignitaries open the event at the official opening ceremony,

‘The Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, the Red Arrows, is one of the world’s premier aerobatic display teams. Representing the United Kingdom at home and overseas and showcasing the excellence of the RAF, the team is the public face of the service.’

Squadron Leader David Montenegro, Team Leader of the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, said: “We’re delighted to be flying at this year’s America’s Cup World Series in Portsmouth. It’s always a privilege to be involved in such a prestigious event. The Red Arrows represent the speed, precision and agility of the Royal Air Force. In this respect, there is much in common with the high-performance illustrated in the America’s Cup World Series. In addition, just as with the Land Rover Ben Ainslie Racing team, the Red Arrows aim to showcase the best of British. I hope people enjoy our display and are inspired by the dedication and teamwork demonstrated both in the air and on the water.”

The Red Arrows are the second aerial display to be announced with the Red Bull Matadors already confirmed for Sunday 24th July. Extreme sports fans should also check out Southsea Skatepark, which will be located inside the Race Village, hosting live demos and plenty of opportunities to test your skills.

Adult’s Race Village tickets are priced from £25, 6-15 year olds are half price and under 5’s go for free. Seats are also booking fast in the Premier Grandstand - a sell-out for 2015 - and dedicated fans can treat themselves to a ticket for the Sailors Lounge, with special guest speakers giving a real insight into all the action. This year the Southsea Common area outside of the Race Village will be unticketed & unrestricted, so families can bring a picnic and enjoy views.

Find out more about the full event schedule, how to buy tickets. follow the event or become an exhibitor at www.lvacwsportsmouth.com